Over the last month and a half, a handful of MCC leaders from Eastern Wildlands have set out to get their hands dirty and their minds full of new ideas. Yes, this is in addition to the daily dedication we have made to MCC. Our strong work ethic and good attitude have been given freely to Danly Farms, the only organic farm in Yellowstone County. The farmers, Mary and Barbara, have opened up their land for us to continue our commitment to service and community outside of the MCC world, even if it’s just in Laurel…..a close 20 mile drive from downtown Billings. With just under five acres, the well designed farm produces vegetables, grapes, hops and even enough space for an old boxcar full of chickens.
In the last weeks, we have helped in various projects; laying out the lining for the onion beds, building a compost pile, digging a trench for an irrigation system, anchoring down 25 ash trees, preparing mini metal greenhouses for the fields and weeding the many nooks and crannies where weeds are most resilient. The MCC crew leaders have gained a lot more than a signed volunteer form; we have gained a valuable relationship with two wise women who have shared so freely their philosophy and love for the land.
As they neared retirement age, Mary and Barbara decided to live their passions fully and learn to grow their own food in a natural way. They expressed that the organic food movement may be the most important issue surrounding the sustainability of both the earth and our bodies. When I asked these farmers what their philosophy of the land was, they replied with “Disturb the land the way it would disturb itself.” That means working with the land, taking care of it so that it can decide its own natural development. So, these farmers spend a lot of time weeding and growing their patience as they do to their vegetable beds.
Through their philosophy, I am reminded of our own commitment to the land so that it continues to grow stronger. We have been given so many opportunities this season to look at the landscape before us and determine our impact on it. We might build a trail so others can enjoy it without getting lost, or we might sand down a boardwalk so people can go see a famous signature on an old rock (without getting a splinter in their finger). Or we might cut down burned up trees from a backyard so the fire, when it comes again, doesn’t do as much damage as it has in the past. We might dig a latrine so that our “mark” on the land is a little less visible and available to plant and wildlife. We might inspire youth to pick up trash or rather pick up a backpack and enter the woods.
Regardless, through our work with MCC, we are always asked to explore our impact, physically and emotionally on the landscape of this great state of Montana. Examining our impact on this earth is not just something MCC asks of us, it is what we should be asking of ourselves on a daily basis through our personal relationships. Spending time with these two inspirational women has given me a better understanding how the organic movement can be a part of that process. I understand what it takes to stand firmly behind this movement, even if you are actually on your knees weeding out the asparagus patch all afternoon.
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